Fenestratarum Mulyadii

Fenestratarum mulyadii is a rare and fascinating aquarium plant endemic to Borneo, East Kalimantan Timur, Indonesia, prized for its unique, fenestrated leaves and adaptability to aquascaping environments. This species is especially valued in specialized planted tanks due to its slow growth, distinct appearance, and close relation to genera like Aridarum, Bucephalandra, and Piptospatha.

Detailed Description
Fenestratarum mulyadii features long, slender, deep green leaves that are slightly ruffled and leathery to the touch. The leaves sprout closely together from a thick central rhizome, with pronounced curves and fenestrations (window-like holes) that make the plant visually unique. Plants available in the aquarium trade can have leaves reaching up to 6 inches in length.

Caring Requirements
Attachment: As an epiphytic species, Fenestratarum mulyadii should be attached to hardscape (wood, rock) rather than planted in substrate; burying the rhizome will cause rot.

Light: Prefers low to medium lighting, mimicking its natural shaded habitat.

Fertilizer: Quality aquarium plant fertilizer supports healthy growth.

CO2: While not essential, CO2 supplementation is recommended for optimal growth.

Maintenance: Requires consistent aquarium parameters; unstable conditions or drastic changes can cause leaf melt and rhizome rot.

Preparation: Remove any pot and rockwool from roots before attaching the plant to hardscape.

Adaptability
Fenestratarum mulyadii adapts well to aquariums that replicate the slow flow and stable conditions of Southeast Asian streams where it naturally occurs. Its care is similar to Bucephalandra and related genera, though it especially benefits from gentle water flow and stable parameters. Because it is extremely rare and sensitive, it is best suited for aquarists with experience caring for specialty aroids.

Growing Conditions
Temperature: Native to tropical climates; recommended aquarium temperatures range from 22°C to 28°C (71°F to 82°F).

Water pH: Thrives in slightly acidic to neutral conditions, with a pH range of 6–8.

Substrate: Never bury the rhizome; always attach to rock or wood.

Final Appearance: Leaf size, color, and growth rate are highly dependent on aquarium conditions, with CO2 yielding better growth and vibrancy.

Fenestratarum mulyadii is exceptionally rare, and its successful cultivation depends on careful and stable management, mimicking its native environment as much as possible.